Cuttack, Dec. 24: Mosquito problem in Cuttack has intensified with the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) failing to make arrangements to keep its anti-mosquito fogging machines and sprayers functional.

Recently, corporators who have been hounded by the public over this issue managed to create a hue and cry in the November municipal council meeting. Back then the mayor had issued a set of directions to the CMC, none of which have been apparently implemented till date.

Though 40 fogging machines are available with the CMC, only some of them are operational. Similarly, nearly all the 150-odd spray pumps are lying defunct.

Talking to The Telegraph, The mayor conceded that repair work on the fogging machines and sprayers were underway. They would be functional from January 2, assured Nibedita Pradhan.

However, she could not explain why the repair was not completed earlier, especially during the breeding season before it became a problem.

Work on cleaning of tertiary drains across the city was not undertaken for a fortnight due to a hitch over hike in wage for the worker force engaged for it.

The Cuttack Municipal Corporation workers were being paid a daily wage of Rs 70, but they have been demanding a hike of Rs 6. The CMC, only recently, engaged four drain workers each for the 48 wards.